How to Report Social Securty Fraud

Social Security fraud is an expensive cost to taxpayers.

The Office of the Inspector General investigates Social Security fraud -- and takes the job very seriously. In 2011, a 67-year-old Detroit woman faced prison time after a conviction for Social Security fraud. The woman received $120,000 in fraudulent benefits over a 10-year period while continuing to receive disability benefits for a son who was in prison. Other people have committed Social Security fraud by buying or selling Social Security cards and making false statements to qualify for assistance. The Office of the Inspector General tries to control the problem by making it easy for the public to report suspected fraud.

Instructions

1. Recognize suspected fraud, such as people continuing to work full-time while receiving disability benefits or people who are continuing to receive and cash Social Security checks for people who are deceased.

2. Gather details of the suspected fraud, including the name of the person who allegedly committed the crime. If possible get the person's Social Security number, date of birth, address and telephone number. Also gather the same information for anyone victimized by the fraud. Note details about what the suspect did, where the fraud took place and how.

3. Report the fraud online by filling out a "Fraud Reporting Form" on the Social Security website (socialsecurity.gov). Do not list your contact information if you wish to remain anonymous.

4. Report the fraud by telephone by calling the Social Security Administration fraud hotline [phone]). The phone line is open from 10 am. To 4 p.m. EST. Do not reveal your personal information if you wish to remain anonymous.

5. Fax reports about fraud to the Social Security Administration (fax: [phone]).

References

• Social Security Online: Office of the Inspector General
• "Christian Science Monitor"; Social Security Fraud: Grandmother Claimed Fake Son; March 2011

Resources

• Social Security Online: Fraud Reporting Form